I REFER to the paragraph on page nine of the Bolton Evening News on November 26 headed "Army flag for church".

These are not "flags", but are "colours" -- regimental standards which have been dedicated and presented to the particular regiment. When that Regiment is disbanded or amalgamated, they are "laid up" in a church in perpetuity.

They are not taken down, but remain in situ. Where a church is closed, as in the case of St George's, Bolton, the Colours are transferred to another church. The Colours embody the battle history, traditions and honours of the Regiment. They are the standards around which all ranks rally, and are greatly honoured and valued as such.

Harold Owen

Armadale Road

Bolton